Dictionary of National Biography, 1901 supplement/Jerrard, George Birch
JERRARD, GEORGE BIRCH (d. 1863), mathematician, was the son of Major-general Joseph Jerrard (d. 23 Nov. 1858). He studied at Trinity College, Dublin, and graduated B.A. in 1827. He is chiefly known for his work in connection with the theory of equations. Between 1832 and 1835 he published his 'Mathematical Researches' (Bristol, 8vo), in which he made important contributions towards the solution of the general quintic equation. In 1858 he published a further treatise on the subject, entitled 'An Essay on the Resolution of Equations' (London, 8vo). The theory of equations has since undergone great development, Arthur Cayley [q. v. Suppl.] and Sir James Cockle [q. v. Suppl.] being among those who have devoted attention to it.
Jerrard died on 23 Nov. 1863 at Long Stratton rectory in Norfolk, the residence of his brother, Frederick William Hill Jerrard (d. 18 Feb. 1884).
[Boase's Modern English Biogr.; Gent. Mag 1859 i. 102, 1864 i. 130; Encyclopædia Britannica, 9th edit. viii. 509.]